Ride Into Cape Cod’s Scenic Heart on the Cape Cod Rail Trail in Massachusetts

Stretching over 25 miles through the heart of the Cape, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is a beloved multi-use path that offers one of the most scenic and accessible ways to explore the natural and cultural beauty of Massachusetts’ Cape Cod region. Running from Yarmouth to Wellfleet, this repurposed railroad corridor has been transformed into a smooth, paved trail ideal for cycling, walking, and even horseback riding. Whether you’re pedaling past cranberry bogs, stopping for fresh seafood, or spotting herons in the marshes, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is more than a bike path — it’s a journey through the Cape’s coastal charm.

Top Things to Do on the Cape Cod Rail Trail

Multi-Use Trail Adventures

The Rail Trail is designed for a variety of non-motorized activities, welcoming users of all ages and skill levels.

Biking: The most popular way to enjoy the trail, with rental shops available near most trailheads
Walking and jogging: Smooth, level pavement makes it accessible and enjoyable year-round
Rollerblading and skateboarding: Great surface conditions for wheeled recreation
Horseback riding: Permitted in designated sections, especially near Nickerson State Park
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing: A serene experience in winter months

Scenic Highlights and Natural Encounters

With every turn, the trail reveals a different side of Cape Cod’s unique landscape.

Views of cranberry bogs, salt marshes, pine forests, and freshwater ponds
Wildlife viewing: Look for ospreys, turtles, deer, and even foxes along the way
Interpretive signs that offer insight into the area’s ecology, history, and railroad past
Benches and scenic pull-offs perfect for relaxing, birdwatching, or snapping a photo

Convenience and Amenities Along the Trail

One of the best features of the Rail Trail is its rider-friendly infrastructure, making it easy to stop, rest, or refuel.

Restrooms and trash receptacles located at key access points
Parking lots at several trailheads, including in Yarmouth, Brewster, and Orleans
Bike rental shops in trail towns like Dennis, Eastham, and Wellfleet
Bike repair stations with tools and air pumps
Food vendors and ice cream stands within walking distance of the trail in many villages
Information kiosks and trail maps at major trailheads
Dog-friendly: Leashed pets are welcome; many stops offer water bowls and waste stations

What Makes the Cape Cod Rail Trail Unique?

Unlike many rail trails, the Cape Cod Rail Trail delivers a seamless blend of nature, recreation, and classic Cape charm. In a single ride or walk, you can pass through forests, cruise by kettle ponds, and stop in quaint towns with access to beaches, general stores, and roadside seafood shacks. With multiple connectors to other paths — like the Old Colony Rail Trail to Chatham and a spur into Nickerson State Park — this trail offers nearly endless combinations for day trips and weekend outings. It’s flat, well-maintained, and perfect for families, casual riders, and seasoned cyclists alike.

Visitor Tips

Start early: The trail is most peaceful in the morning and less crowded in popular areas
Bring sunscreen and bug spray: Portions of the trail are exposed or pass near wetlands
Stay hydrated: Pack water, especially on summer days — refill stations are limited
Use a bell or call out: To pass others safely on shared portions of the trail
Check local conditions: Some sections may be closed for maintenance or repaving

Local Tip: Plan a Pond Loop Picnic

Looking for a shorter but scenic route? Start in Brewster and ride the loop around Flax Pond or Nickerson State Park, then enjoy a lakeside picnic under the pines. The inland ponds are less windy than the coastline and ideal for a quiet lunch stop or a refreshing swim in the summer months.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is more than a path — it’s a window into the soul of the Cape. Whether you explore it by bike, on foot, or even snowshoes, this trail offers an unforgettable mix of exercise, relaxation, and coastal discovery that keeps visitors coming back season after season.